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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I am a 9-Year Triple Negative Breast Cancer Survivor. If you have been in business more than 30 years, then most likely you are a senior. God has blessed us to live longer lives than many; however, this comes with challenges in terms of overall health and deteriorating body functions.
Nine years ago, I was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer, which is a rare form of breast cancer that is more aggressive, more likely to spread, and more likely to return. This meant I had to undergo one of the strongest cocktails of chemo, which they call the “red devil.” After sixteen weeks of chemo and minor surgery – I was declared “cancer free.” Thank God, and that was nine years ago.
When I was first diagnosed, my first thought was, “What is going to happen to my business?” Of course, the diagnosis came at a time when the company was in a down season, the first of the year. After some research, I was aware that cancer treatment can be a tiring experience and there were many side effects one has to deal with. Anticipating I may not be well enough to carry on day-to-day functions of the business, I employed my sister to do most of what I would do and gave her overnight training. Anticipating my co-pays for the many weekly visits, etc., I decided to start a go-fund-me. Thank you to the many who contributed to the fund and to my many friends and associates who helped me through this crisis.
I cannot imagine how difficult it is for anyone to go through cancer treatment alone. If you know anyone who is suffering from cancer – don’t just ask them to call if they need something. They need you, your time, and assistance. Chances are chemo leaves them so tired they can hardly get themselves home from treatment. Although they may have insurance, co-pays can be very expensive as they need to see specialists and have many weekly tests and screenings before, during, and after. If they have no one living with them, they may need you to go shopping for them. It would be helpful for you to go to their doctor’s appointments with them. After a diagnosis, there are many follow-up screenings, etc. When you are devastated with a diagnosis, it may be difficult to keep track of all the appointments. Chemo treatments can take about five hours. They may have to wait an hour or two for their turn. If you go with them, you may be able to get them beverages or snacks while they are waiting, etc. Determine what time you can offer them and be specific about what you are willing to do. I thank God one of my friends went to every doctor’s appointment with me, and she took notes. Another friend went to just about every chemo treatment I had, and another friend drove me wherever I needed to go. They also brought me food, fruits, and basically anything I needed. I realize how blessed I was to have them in my life and know that my experience and outcome could have been very different without them.
Being cancer-free does not mean that you are free from the side effects. Some of the side effects, such as twisted toe and hand nails, neuropathy, dark skin patches, etc., may be with you for a lifetime. On the other hand, surviving means you are free to enjoy life, regardless of your limitations.
If you are a small business owner, especially one who basically does every job, consider that you may get ill, and you need to make sure someone else is able to run your business. Consider your succession plan. Don’t wait until it’s too late. I thank God for these 30 years, and I look forward to the future.
